Summer is upon us. All the children are out of school and the college kids have been out for a month already (unless you're in trimesters, in which case I'm deeply sorry). The beaches are packed, as are the pools. The most important thing you can do with your summer is not stay inside watching reruns of Gilmore Girls.

Be intentional about making plans.

Tell your friends you want to do something, be specific and get a date on your calendar. As a college student, most people will be working their summers away, so make sure you get to spend time with the people you care about.

Work hard.

Sometimes the only job you can get is the cashier at the local grocery store, or maybe you have a well-paid office job. Make sure you make the most out of those daytime hours and work for the money you are getting. There's nothing better than the feeling of depositing your paycheck into your bank account.

Go outside.

I know, foreign concept, right? I am paler than a sheet of paper honestly, but the sunshine is worth it. Use sunscreen (lots of sunscreen) and sit outside with a good book. Another option is finding a lake or body of water and just watching the water. The color blue is calming, and is always a great way to start a day.

Go to the zoo.

It may be packed this time of year, but if you live near a city that has a wonderful zoo. Go visit! Make a day out of it and bring a picnic to eat at a nearby park and go enjoy all the animals you can find. People watching is another excellent thing to do at the zoo! Kids love to imitate the animals (20-year-olds do too). It's a great getaway for a day, and will make you forget all the things you have to get done.

Go on vacation.

I understand not everyone can go to Disney world, but even just a day to a city or campground would suffice. It's important to relax during your summer vacation. School is stressful and there's little time to get off campus, but when you're on summer break it's a little easy to take a weekend away.

Spend time with family.

Living with your family for 3 months straight can get old when you're used to living alone, but this is the only time you have. Make the most of it. I drive to work with my mom every morning and our time is maximized. Luckily, my mom is my favorite person and it doesn't get old, but family time is important!

Have fun.

Do what you want! Go out with friends, go on vacation, and just enjoy yourself. Summer is the time for being happy and having less responsibilities than when you're at school. Make the most of this and make sure you stay hydrated!

Make sure your summer is filled with exciting things that will make you happy.